Wireless-G Notebook Adapter

4.If you chose Infrastructure Mode, go to Step 5 now. If you chose Ad-Hoc Mode, select the correct operating channel for your network. Then, select the Network Mode from the drop-down menu. Click the Next button, and go to Step 5. Click the Back button to change any settings.

Channel - The channel you choose should match the channel set on the other devices in your wireless network. If you are unsure about which channel to use, select the default channel (Channel 6).

Network Mode - Select the type of network you have, mixed (Wireless-G and Wireless-B) or G-Only (only Wireless-G). If you select Mixed Mode, both Wireless-G and Wireless-B computers will be allowed on the network, which may reduce your speed. Select G-Only Mode for maximum speed, but no Wireless-B users will be allowed on the network.

5.Select the type of security you want to use: 64-bit WEP, 128-bit WEP, or WPA-PSK. All devices in a network must use the same type.

WEP

Security - To use WEP encryption, select 64-bits or 128-bit characters from the drop-down menu, and enter a passphrase or WEP key.

Passphrase - Instead of manually entering a WEP key, you can enter a passphrase in the Passphrase field, so a WEP key is automatically generated. It is case-sensitive and should not be longer than 16 alphanumeric characters. This passphrase must match the passphrase of your other wireless network devices and is compatible with Linksys wireless products only. (If you have any non-Linksys wireless products, enter the WEP key manually on those products.)

WEP Key - The WEP key you enter must match the WEP key of your wireless network. If you are using 64-bit WEP encryption, then the key must consist of exactly 10 hexadecimal characters. If you are using 128-bit WEP encryption, then the key must consist of exactly 26 hexadecimal characters. Valid hexadecimal characters are “0” to “9” and “A” to “F”.

Transmit Key - The default transmit key number is 1. If your network’s access point or wireless router uses transmit key number 2, 3, or 4, select the appropriate number from the Transmit Key drop-down box.

Authentication -The default is set to Auto, where it auto-detects for Shared Key or Open system. Shared Key is when both the sender and the recipient share a WEP key for authentication. Open key is when the sender and the recipient do not share a WEP key for authentication. All points on your network must use the same authentication type.

Click the Next button to continue.s. Click the Back button to return to the previous screen. Click the Help button for more information.

Chapter 4: Software Installation and Configuration

Figure 4-4: The Setup Wizard’s Ad-Hoc Mode Screen

bit: a binary digit

Figure 4-5: The Setup Wizard’s WEP Screen

9

The Installation Procedure

Page 14
Image 14
Linksys WPC54G manual Wep, Bit a binary digit

WPC54G specifications

The Linksys WPC54G is a wireless network adapter specifically designed for laptops and portable devices, enabling users to connect to wireless networks seamlessly. As a member of the Linksys family, the WPC54G provides robust functionality paired with ease of use, making it a popular choice for home and office environments.

One of the standout features of the WPC54G is its support for the IEEE 802.11g standard, which allows for wireless data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps. This technology provides a significant upgrade over older standards, enabling users to enjoy faster internet speeds and smoother streaming experiences. The WPC54G is also backward compatible with the 802.11b standard, ensuring it can connect to a wide range of wireless networks.

The device employs a PCI card form factor, which makes it easy to install in most laptops. Compatibility with a range of operating systems, including Windows and Linux, enhances its versatility. The card offers a reliable connection through its use of advanced wireless technologies such as the use of Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology, improving signal strength and stability. This allows the WPC54G to deliver high-speed connections even at greater distances from the access point.

Equipped with WEP, WPA, and WPA2 encryption protocols, the Linksys WPC54G prioritizes security, giving users peace of mind when accessing unsecured networks. This feature is especially important in today’s digital landscape, where data privacy and security are paramount.

Another significant characteristic of the WPC54G is its ease of setup. The included utility allows users to manage their connections and configure settings effortlessly, making it accessible even to those who are not technically savvy. The card also features a Linksys Easy Setup Assistant, guiding users through the installation process step by step.

In terms of physical attributes, the WPC54G is compact and designed to fit snugly into PC Card slots, ensuring portability without compromising performance. Overall, the Linksys WPC54G wireless network adapter remains a reliable choice for users seeking speed, security, and ease of use in their wireless connectivity solutions, solidifying its place in the market as a dependable networking device.